Bachelor of Arts in English*

Simply put, students of English learn to read, understand, interpret, and analyze various forms of literature. But the study of literature encompasses much more than developing essential reading and writing skills; it allows students to explore what it means to be human, to be alive, to be creative, to be part of a culture, a society, and a tradition.

English majors begin their program of study by taking an introductory literature course in fiction, poetry, or drama and a lower division course in literary criticism. The English program continues to be a vital component of the HNU curriculum because it offers students the opportunity to appreciate established literary traditions while also introducing them to new worlds of literature and contemporary methods of interpretation. Perhaps most important is the fact that students in our program are encouraged, through close interaction with their peers and instructors, to voice their critical opinions openly and to expect constructive, candid responses.

Career Options

English provides valuable preparation for any career that requires the ability to think analytically, speak effectively, write precisely, and understand issues from differing points of view. The major is valuable for those entering law, human resources management, government, sales and marketing, or public information services. English majors are encouraged to pursue a second major, a minor, or a concentration in an area complementary to the major and advantageous in terms of various career options: business, communications, computer science, or foreign languages.

Holy Names University (HNU) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, physical/mental disability, marital status, or national or ethnic origins in the administration of its educational or admission policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other University administered programs.